Cottage Food Operations

AB-1252 has been signed into law by Governor Brown and became effective as of January 1, 2014. This bill made certain changes to CA Retail Food Code. Please click here to view a summary of the changes.

Effective January 1, 2013, the Cottage Food Bill, AB1616, allows certain low-risk food products, to be prepared and packaged in private home kitchens in California. The Cottage Food Bill, also known as the California Homemade Food Act, was passed in an effort to help Californians recover from the slow economy, promote small scale businesses and create jobs. This type of operation is called a Cottage Food Operation (CFO).

Only low-risk food products that are non potentially hazardous are allowed for a CFO. These types of products do not require refrigeration and are considered safe from rapid bacterial growth that can cause sickness. These low-risk foods include:

CFO Types

Class A

CFOs may engage in a direct sale of cottage food products. A direct sale is a transaction between the CFO operator and the consumer. Direct sales may take place at bake sales, certified farmers’ markets, and even temporary events. This class type will not require initial or routine inspections from our Department but must complete the following prior to operating:

Submit a completed self-certification checklist prior to operation

Submit a completed Registration/Permitting form and register with our Department. This is required annually.

Prior to coming in with your paperwork please call your local area office to make an appointment to meet with an Environmental Health Specialist about your business.

Class B

CFOs may engage in direct and indirect sales of cottage food products. An indirect sale is where a consumer purchases a cottage food product made by a cottage food operator at a third-party retailer. A retail food facility that holds a valid health permit including markets, restaurants, bakeries, and delis are third-party retailers. Prior to operating CFOs in this class must:

Make an appointment with an Environmental Health Specialist for an initial inspection. The initial inspection will be conducted in the kitchen and food storage area(s) and is required before issuing a permit

Submit a completed Registration/Permitting form and obtain an annual permit from our Department